Commonwealth Autism VA

04/20/2026

See the Commonwealth Autism Impact in Loudon's story.

In 2026, approximately 85% of autistic adults are unemployed. To address the barriers of employment for autistic individuals, Commonwealth Autism has developed the Career Readiness & Employment (CRE) program to equip participants with the skills, resources & community necessary to find and maintain long-term employment. With 85% of graduates finding long-term employment following program completion, the CRE program empowers both the individual and the employer to shift the professional landscape towards embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.

To learn more about employment opportunities & resources for autistic individuals in Virginia, visit our website https://www.commonwealthautism.org/.

1 like. "The Commonwealth Autism Impact | Loudoun"

04/17/2026

We’re so grateful for a powerful night of community, impact and flavor! We saw an overwhelming flood of people who showed up to do their part in making this happen — community members, volunteers, sponsor partners, local chefs.

With your presence and support at Chefs’ Cook-Off Challenge last night, we raised over $100,000 to fuel our mission in bringing equity, opportunity & success to the autistic community of Virginia.

Share and follow our story to see what’s coming next for Commonwealth Autism!

04/13/2026

We’re closing in on our Chefs’ Cook-Off fundraiser on April 16th! Check out this sneak peak of our silent auction items — we’ve collaborated with the Virginia community to bring you spectacular experiences and one-of-kind items available for your bid.

Special thanks to Love Ridge RVA, King Family Vineyards, Brad Bailey, Cinebistro, Janet’s Cafe & Bakery, and RVA Coffee Stain for these featured items!

Which item is at the top of your wish list?

04/07/2026

LAST CALL FOR TICKETS!

Don’t miss out on one of our favorite nights of the year—Chefs’ Cook-Off Challenge.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of incredible food, friendly competition, and powerful impact. Every ticket supports our mission and helps fuel programs that create real opportunities in our community.

🎟️ Tickets are almost gone—grab yours now before it’s too late!



https://cachefscookoffchallenge.eventbrite.com

04/06/2026

Meet our emcees for the 2026 Chefs' Cook-Off Challenge:
We're honored to welcome GeNienne Samuels and Lane Casadonte, Emmy Award winning news anchors, as our hosts for the night. Get your tickets for the event today!

Currently an evening news anchor at WTVR CBS6, GeNienne Samuels also appears as the in-game host for the NFL's Washington Commanders. As former In-Arena host for the NBA's Washington Wizards, the WNBA’s Washington Mystics, and the AFL’s Baltimore Brigade, GeNienne is often found right where the action happens.

WTVR CBS6 Sports Director Lane Casadonte brings over thirty years of sports commentating experience, covering an impressive roster including the Washington Commanders, NASCAR, as well as collegiate sports and over 60 high school programs in Central Virginia.

Thank you to both for partnering with Commonwealth Autism in this special way!

https://cachefscookoffchallenge.eventbrite.com

04/02/2026

Welcome to one of incredible employer partners!! Companies throughout Richmond and Virginia like Kristen's Kitchen Restaurant and Food Truck are making a huge impact in the Autism community!

04/02/2026

Join us at iconic Altria Theater for Commonwealth Autism’s annual Chefs' Cook-Off Challenge. in support of Virginia’s autistic community & the professionals that serve them. From Broadway shows to award & trade shows, the Richmond venue hosts over 100+ experiences a year and has cemented its place as one of the city’s most treasured spots for high-class entertainment.

Commonwealth Autism brings together some of Richmond’s most celebrated chefs for a night of culinary innovation & community impact. Proceeds support CA’s advance towards equity, opportunity, and inclusion for autistic & neurodivergent people across Virginia. Theater

Come join us for a delectable chefs' cook off challenge on April 16, 2026 at the iconic Altria Theater!

04/01/2026

Executive Chef Victoria Cosner’s love for her community shines through in every aspect of her role as Executive Chef at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards. Embracing a true farm-to-table philosophy, she crafts dishes for the Tasting Room, private events, and weddings, incorporating ingredients grown on the property and sourced from local vendors. Cosner is equally passionate about teaching others, welcoming guests into the kitchen to learn, cook, and experience a garden-to-table ethos firsthand through her cooking classes. Always drawn to new challenges and creative opportunities, Cosner recently stepped into the national spotlight as a competitor on Food Network’s Chopped, showcasing her talent on a broader stage.

Catch her at Chefs’ Cook-Off Challenge.
https://cachefscookoffchallenge.eventbrite.com

03/31/2026

Austin McCormick began his culinary journey in Williamsburg under renowned Certified Executive Chef Travis Brust at the esteemed Williamsburg Inn. After honing his skills under Chef Jesse Miller at J Sargent Reynolds, he returned to Richmond to take his current position as sous chef of Lemaire at The Jefferson Hotel. McCormick brings a vibrant passion for classic French cuisine to the Richmond food scene, exploring honored tradition through unique pairings of modern techniques & local ingredients.

Catch him at Chefs’ Cook-Off Challenge.
https://cachefscookoffchallenge.eventbrite.com

03/31/2026

Zachary Gutierrez is an accomplished culinary leader currently serving as Executive Chef for the Altria Theatre and the Dominion Energy Center. A native of San Antonio, Gutierrez brings deep-rooted culinary influences shaped by his upbringing and refined through years of experience in both hotel and country club kitchens. With a striking repertoire including events such as the 2025 NCAA Final Four Men’s Basketball Tournament, his cooking is never simply a background player to an event — Gutierrez delivers outstanding flavors and exceptional hospitality that leaves every guest with an unforgettable experience.

Meet him at Chefs’ Cook-Off Challenge.

https://cachefscookoffchallenge.eventbrite.com

03/17/2026

Why Chefs' Cook Off Challenge Matters

“My mental health has gotten better… there were times I didn’t think I’d be able to achieve anything. I started doubting myself—feeling like I wasn’t capable. But thanks to Commonwealth Autism, I realized… I can do this. I can work at my pace and have people who support me.”

— Jakob, Career Readiness Graduate & Good Foods Grocery Team Member

Because of programs like Career Readiness, individuals like Jakob aren’t just finding jobs—they’re finding confidence, independence, and belief in what’s possible.

✨ This is the impact of your support.
✨ This is why we gather.
✨ This is why the Chef’s Cook Off Challenge matters.

Join us at the Chef’s Cook Off Challenge and be part of stories like Jakob’s.
Come experience an unforgettable night of food, community, and purpose—while helping create opportunities for more individuals to thrive.

🎟️ Get your tickets today and make an impact for the future.
https://cachefscookoffchallenge.eventbrite.com

03/16/2026

The goal of our Career Readiness & Employment Program is to support neurodivergent adults in finding long-term, sustainable employment that aligns with their passions, skills, and career goals.

Tim is a program graduate who truly embodies perseverance and positivity in the job search process. While pursuing full-time opportunities in his career field, Tim worked part-time at Good Foods Grocery and continued to stay focused on his goals.

We are so proud to share that Tim is moving on from his role at Good Foods because he has accepted a full-time position in his career field!

Congratulations, Tim! We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish next. 🎉👏